The hoof is a complex, weight-bearing structure designed to absorb shock, support circulation, and protect internal structures. Subtle hoof changes often appear days or weeks before lameness becomes obvious.
Early detection prevents minor issues from escalating into costly and painful conditions.
This guide explains the most common hoof problems in UK horses and how to recognise them before they become serious.
Why Hoof Monitoring Matters
The hoof supports:
- 500+ kg of weight in many horses
- Circulatory return through frog pressure
- Joint alignment
- Tendon and ligament balance
Small imbalances can have whole-body consequences.
Daily inspection is not optional — it is essential.
1. Thrush
Thrush is a bacterial infection of the frog, common in wet UK conditions.
Early Signs
- Foul smell
- Black discharge in frog grooves
- Soft, spongy frog
- Mild sensitivity when picking out feet
Risk Factors
- Constant wet bedding
- Muddy turnout
- Poor stable hygiene
- Infrequent hoof picking
Prevention
- Daily hoof cleaning
- Dry standing areas
- Regular farrier visits
Left untreated, thrush can penetrate deeper tissues.
2. Hoof Cracks
Cracks may be:
- Vertical (sand cracks)
- Horizontal (often previous abscess exit)
Early Signs
- Fine hairline cracks
- Small splits at hoof wall edge
- Flaking or brittle edges
Causes
- Repeated dry/wet cycles
- Nutritional imbalance
- Poor trimming intervals
- Trauma
Early intervention prevents structural weakness.
3. Abscesses
Abscesses are pockets of infection within the hoof and can develop rapidly.
Early Signs
- Sudden lameness
- Heat in hoof
- Strong digital pulse
- Reluctance to bear weight
Many abscesses initially appear as mild stiffness before severe pain develops.
Prompt veterinary or farrier attention is required.
4. Laminitis (Early Warning Signs)
Laminitis is inflammation of the laminae within the hoof and is a medical emergency.
Early Signs
- Reluctance to turn tightly
- Shortened stride
- Shifting weight between feet
- Warm hooves
- Increased digital pulse
The classic rocked-back stance is a later sign — early subtle changes must not be ignored.
5. White Line Disease
White line disease affects the junction between the hoof wall and sole.
Early Signs
- Crumbly white line
- Separation visible when picked out
- Hollow sound when tapped
- Small debris-packed gaps
Often develops quietly. If untreated, structural integrity weakens.
6. Sole Bruising
Bruising may not always be visible externally.
Early Signs
- Sensitivity on hard ground
- Shortened stride
- Mild warmth
- Slight reluctance to move forward
Bruises may show red or purple discoloration on the sole and are common after stony turnout.
7. Underrun Heels
Heels that collapse forward alter hoof balance.
Early Signs
- Low heel angle
- Long toe appearance
- Forward heel tubules
- Reduced frog contact
Chronic underrun heels can affect joint alignment and tendon strain. Corrective trimming may be required.
8. Contracted Heels
Heels narrow inward, reducing frog function.
Early Signs
- Narrow heel width
- Reduced frog size
- Limited expansion
- Decreased shock absorption
Often linked to lack of turnout or poor trimming.
9. Shoe-Related Problems
For shod horses, check for:
- Loose nails
- Twisted shoe
- Raised clenches
- Shifted shoe position
Even minor shoe movement can cause lameness — inspect daily.
Daily Hoof Check Routine
Every day:
- Pick out all four hooves
- Inspect frog and white line
- Check for stones or debris
- Feel for heat
- Assess digital pulse if concerned
Hoof issues rarely appear without early subtle signs.
Understanding the Digital Pulse
The digital pulse runs along the back of the fetlock.
- A normal pulse is faint
- A strong or bounding pulse indicates inflammation
Learning to feel the digital pulse is a key skill for every horse owner.
Environmental Prevention
Reduce hoof problems by:
- Maintaining a regular trimming schedule (typically every 4–6 weeks)
- Providing clean, dry standing areas
- Avoiding prolonged exposure to deep mud
- Feeding balanced nutrition
- Managing grass intake during spring
Hoof health is largely management-driven.
When to Call the Farrier or Vet
Seek professional input if:
- Lameness persists
- Heat is consistent
- Digital pulse is elevated
- Cracks deepen
- Hoof shape changes rapidly
Do not wait for severe lameness — early intervention dramatically improves outcomes.
The Core Principle
Hoof health requires:
- Daily inspection
- Routine trimming
- Environmental management
- Nutritional balance
- Prompt response to change
“No foot, no horse” remains one of the most accurate sayings in equine care.
Subtle changes are warnings.
Act early — not when the horse is already lame.
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Knowledge Hub: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/knowledge-hub/
Category: https://jsm-equestrian-supplies.co.uk/category/horse-health/
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